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Step 1
Not all freelancers are created equal, not every designer can "do it all". Some specialize in advertisements or logos or brochures, etc. etc. So it is very important that you be very specific when hiring and make sure the designer can professionally provide the service you are in need of. Always ask to see a portfolio that contains examples relevant to the project(s) at hand. Don't be afraid to ask for references, current or former clients who can provide insight into the talents and professionalism of the designer. Any freelancer who is not willing to provide these items when trying to win your business is probably not worth hiring.
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Step 2
Not to contradict my previous statement about asking for relevant work examples, but it is also important to remember that many students and recent graduates may be able to provide very creative services without the luxury of a lot of experience. If you consider hiring a junior designer make every effort to feel out the designer first, ask to see some school project examples and even ask for a professor's e-mail address for a reference. Not only can you possibly find a great resource for your design needs, you will be able to get great deals and value from the right designer. Always air on the side of caution though, because it is no great mystery that reliability comes with age and experience.
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Step 3
Be realistic in what you expect from a freelancer. Graphic design can be expensive and if you are planning on having printing as well, that is an additional cost on top of the actual design service. Most experienced designers can provide you with a printer whom they prefer to work, so if you do not have one of your own it may be a good idea to ask up front about printing. Remember that most freelancers, unlike design houses do not carry a large amount of overhead and therefore will probably require payment to secure printing up front, if this is a service you are requesting from the designer. Many freelancers, at least in the early stages of the business relationship may require a deposit on the work they are being contracted to provide. This is a very common practice and should not be a problem if you as a client have every intention to pay the final bill, but at the same time never pay in total up front, that as with any other service or product is a gamble if you have never worked together.
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Step 4
As with any other contractor, in most cases you get what you pay for. As I stated in tip #3 graphic design is not a cheap service. Professional and experienced freelancers can and will charge more than less experienced or unprofessional designers. Although price should never be the only decidig factor, you should consider all of your needs when hiring, sometimes that younger, less experienced designer is just what you need and you can get a better deal in the end, but expect that a less experienced designer will most likely need more attention and direction from you during the design process, it's a trade. Always be very cautious of a deal that seems too good to be true, don't be afraid to ask for additional references and examples if you are unsure about the competence of a freelancer. If they really have nothing to hide they will willingly give you any information you ask for.
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Step 5
I suggest building a lasting relationship with a freelance designer. Not that every freelancer is worthy of that coveted relationship but if you are happy with the job they have performed on that first contract, continue to work with that designer in the future. It will not only boost the designers reputation in the community and provide them with a healthy career but it will benefit your business as well by having a designer on hand and on call that knows at least a little about your business and your expectations as a client.
